5-Hydroxytryptamine and Cyclic Stretch Results in Altered Aortic Valve Collagen Content: Implications for Valve Structure and Function

Cardiac valve structure, function and mechanics are known to be regulated by mechanical forces, cell-mediated factors, as well as circulating endogenous mediators [1]. While several studies have focused on the independent effects of each of these factors, few studies have investigated their combined effects. We sought to understand the combined synergistic effects of cyclic stretch and serotonin on aortic valve structure and function.